By Seedy Jobe
The National Democratic Party has raised concerns about the conduct of The Gambia’s electoral authorities during its ongoing registration process, warning that public confidence in the system depends not only on independence but on the appearance of it.
In a statement published on the party’s official Facebook page, Sainey Manneh, the mobilizer general of the N.D.P., accused the Independent Electoral Commission of downplaying the party’s mobilization efforts and contributing to what he described as an increasingly strained political atmosphere.
“The N.D.P. has been lawfully and transparently engaged in the registration process,” Mr. Manneh said, adding that the party was troubled by what he characterized as a “dramatic and seemingly systematic narrative” in public discourse surrounding its activities.
His remarks come amid claims by a ruling party official that the N.D.P.’s mobilization efforts were unlawful—allegations Mr. Manneh said had gone unanswered by the commission. “Silence in the face of misinformation can be interpreted as consent,” he said, urging the electoral body to clarify its position.
Mr. Manneh called on the commission to “recalibrate its posture” and maintain visible neutrality as it oversees the registration of political parties. “An electoral body must not only be independent, but it must be seen to be independent,” he said, invoking a proverb to underscore his point. “When the drumbeat changes, the dancers must adjust.”
The party, he said, remains committed to complying with all legal and administrative procedures required for registration. But he cautioned that it would not withdraw if it believed the process was being deliberately obstructed.
“Let it be clear that when the road is deliberately made rough, we shall not retreat,” Mr. Manneh said. “Justice may be delayed, but it must never be denied.”
He also appealed to party members and supporters to remain disciplined and law-abiding during the process. “History teaches us that perseverance conquers resistance,” he said.
The commission has not publicly responded to the party’s latest statement.
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